Editors' Review

RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener is a basic RAR utility that lets users open RAR files quickly and easily. Much like ZIP files, RAR files are a type of compressed archive file that allows users to transmit large amounts of data in a more compact format. Also like ZIP files, RAR files need special software to be opened.

The program's interface is basic and a little goofy, featuring a large image of a knife with an ornately carved handle. To un-RAR a file, users simply drag and drop the file onto the program's interface, right-click the file to access RAR File Open Knife from the context menu, or double-click the file to start RAR File Open Knife automatically. The program worked just fine, quickly unpacking everything we threw at it. The built-in Help file is quite lengthy and is really just an unorganized FAQ, although it does provide plenty of information about RAR File Open Knife and RAR files in general. There's even a link to a video tutorial. Our only real complaint about the program was that it's being used as an advertising vehicle for its creator's other projects; three tabs in the interface labeled Gifts, Thanks, and Appreciation contain links to screensavers, e-books, and wallpaper. Although all of this is free, it takes up more space in the program's interface than the program's actual features do. A less cluttered and more professional interface would be an improvement.

RAR File Open Knife installs and uninstalls without issues. We recommend this program to all users.

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Publisher's Description

RAR File Open Knife is not a Swiss Army Knife. It is rather like a precious steak knife: very specialised and efficient. The tool only opens RAR archives. As fast as possible. One can open a RAR file by drag'n'drop, double click or shell integrated context menu. To speed the process up, RAR File Open Knife has the option to define a default output folder and a default password. If selected, RAR File Open Knife automatically creates new subfolders for each RAR archive it opens. The new folders are named automatically after the archive being opened.

1. Be careful: CNET is wrapping the actual installer in an additional "Installer/Downloader" which tries to install additional apps that you probably don't want.
Solution: You can work around that by clicking the "Direct Download" link below the Quick Specs instead of the "Download Now" button. Then you will get the real installer without the extra wrapping.

2. Be careful: The real installer will display offers for additional software that will be installed if you do not choose to unselect it.
Solution: Read the installer screens and only install additional software if you really want to test it.

Summary

1. You have to be careful to click "Direct Download Link" and then for about 30 seconds during the installation process.

It is full of Malware that installed and cost me an entire evening getting rid of it. It not only installs a unwanted toolbar for i.e. and Mozilla it also installs a extension for Chrome all after you telling it you don't want that crap.

Also it does not uninstall properly leaving crap hidden in your start up areas that will cause errors upon rebooting your pc. It will take yet another program to fix that issue for most users.

Summary

I'd say don't use. Buy Winrar itself or grab 7-zip if you want a good free tool to open compressed files.

It is perfect, easy to use when it comes to opening RAR files. Such a simple to use program. It works very well.

Cons

I have no issues with it.

Summary

I've tried more complex RAR openers/archivers and to be honest I just got totally lost in them. And then I found this one and the relief was huge because it's so easy to use. Simple and does the job - Piece of cake.

Didn't even install it when my firefox closed & reopened with three separate add-on install prompts. WTF?!? Malwarebytes scan then uncovered 40+ pieces of crapware that it quarantined & removed. Come on CNET, you should know better!

I only wanted the opener and it took some time to convince the instal beast of my determination. For a simplistic mind like mine, the guide was not quite as helpful as it should have been. Please think of us all as "absolute beginners". Those who aren't will understand, I'm sure.

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